Many tourists don't think of New Orleans as a place to bring the children, but there are plenty of unique family adventures waiting here in New Orleans -- just ask any of the thousands of kids who live here year-round. Remember, Bourbon Street is only one street in the city. There are many more that lead to family fun. Read on to find the top picks tried and loved by generations of New Orleans children.
Bugs, Bugs, and more Bugs at the Audubon Insectarium. Which kid doesn't love bugs!
The Audubon Zoo is a world-class facility located in Audubon Park, and is easily accessible by streetcar, bus or boat. Its Louisiana Swamp Exhibit is a popular place with locals, who flock to see alligators and nutrias up close. Watch for the Loup Garou (say "loo garoo"), a legendary Cajun swamp monster.
The Aquarium of the Americas, located at the foot of Canal Street on the Mississippi River, is among the five top aquariums in the nation. It showcases the aquatic life of the Americas. Don't miss the 400,000 gallon Gulf of Mexico tank.
The Louisiana Children's Museum is in the Arts District on Julia Street, and is a favorite of the children of all ages. Here, the little ones can shop in a pint-size grocery store or serve you lunch in the cafe. Older children can pilot a life-size tugboat on the Mighty Mississippi.
Preservation Hall, dedicated to the preservation of New Orleans Jazz has a family-friendly policy of no drinking or smoking and all ages are invited.
Easily accessible by streetcar from downtown, New Orleans City Park is a 1500-acre park that offers boating, fishing, and nature trails. Two miniature trains tour the perimeter of the park. Take younger children to Storyland, a magical play area featuring 26 nursery rhyme exhibits. You'll also find an amusement park featuring a fully restored antique wooden carousel, one of only 100 left in the country. (Sons and daughters of New Orleans of every age call carousels the "Flying Horses.")
New Orleans sits on the banks of the Mississippi River. There are several river boats that dock near the foot of Canal Street that provide a great experience for families. The Natchez is a real steamboat that has Jazz diner cruses. My favorite is the John James Audubon which goes from the Aquarium of the Americas to the Audubon Zoo and back. You can get a combination ticket for all three attractions and make a whole day of it.
Imagine enjoying world-class art with your children and not worrying about whether they will touch anything. This beautiful part of New Orleans City Park may change your children's view of museums. It's a beautiful setting and accessible art is inviting, not intimidating to kids.
The National World War II Museum is filled with planes, boats and items from World War II Museum, along with special programs, make this museum something kids will love.
What, Mardi Gras? If you're thinking, who in their right mind would take a child to Mardi Gras, you have either never been here or you've only stayed in the French Quarter when you came. It's true that the media loves to show the "exposures" for beads that goes on Bourbon Street. But, there's a side of Mardi Gras few outsiders even know about and it can be one of the best vacations your family ever had.
There's a lot of fun to be had in your own streetcar. Decorate it and bring food for a great birthday celebration.
